Cobb Reporter

The Georgia Symphony Orchestra has been awarded a $14,400 Bridge Grant from the Georgia Council for the Arts (GCA), a strategic arm of the Georgia Department of Economic Development, for fiscal year 2025. The Bridge Grant provides operating support funding to nonprofit arts organizations that were adversely affected by COVID-19. This year, 204 entities in 44 counties will receive more than $2.6 million in funding through these awards.

“These grant dollars will allow arts organizations in Georgia to focus on their primary mission to bring art and cultural events to their communities by relieving the burden of certain operating expenses,” said GCA Executive Director Tina Lilly. “Georgia Council for the Arts is excited to help our arts organizations continue to foster economic and cultural vitality in their communities.”

Applications were received from various arts organizations across the state, including performing arts centers, museums, galleries, amphitheaters, and music festivals. Bridge Grants are available for eligible operating expenses such as rent, utilities, programming expenses, and marketing.

“We are so grateful to have the support of the GCA as we begin our 74th season serving Marietta, Cobb County and the greater metro Atlanta area,” said GSO Executive Director Suzanne Tucker. “These funds will allow us to bring music into schools, senior centers and veteran’s homes, and to continue our special concerts for those on the autism spectrum or with other special needs. It means we can have a positive impact on our community beyond the concert stage.”

Funding for these grants is provided through appropriations from the National Endowment for the Arts and the American Rescue Plan (ARP).

GCA uses Peer Review Panels to judge and review applications following standard practices set by the National Endowment for the Arts. Panelists include GCA Council members and fellow professionals experienced in relevant arts disciplines or types of grants being reviewed.

Founded in 1951 in Arthur F. Moor’s home in Marietta, Georgia Symphony Orchestra is celebrating its 74th season of growth while enriching metro Atlanta with accessible performances and educational experiences that promote lifelong appreciation for the arts. Led by Music Director Timothy Verville, GSO offers diverse programming featuring internationally recognized guest artists and collaborative performances.

Georgia Council for the Arts empowers Georgia's arts industry and artists statewide to cultivate vibrant communities rich in civic participation, cultural experiences, and economic prosperity. As part of GDEcD (Georgia Department of Economic Development), it provides grant funding programs that support this vital industry while preserving cultural heritage.

The Georgia Department of Economic Development serves as Georgia's sales and marketing arm responsible for attracting new business investments, expanding existing industries, locating new markets for products made in Georgia, attracting tourists to Georgia’s destinations as well as promoting film projects within state boundaries.